Sprayer Selection Guide
Choosing a professional sprayer comes down to four questions, answered in this order: what chemical (this sets the seal material), what output (mist, stream or foam), what capacity (how long between refills), and what duty (handheld or mounted for high volume). Get the chemical question right first, because the wrong seal makes every other choice moot.
Pair this with the Chemical Compatibility Guide for the seal detail. When you want it spec'd for you, NORA PRO will match the unit to your chemical and job.
Find the right sprayer
Step 1: the chemical sets the seal
VITON for acids and solvents, EPDM for bleach, caustics and ketones. This is covered in full in the Chemical Compatibility Guide. Everything below assumes the seal is already right.
Step 2: sprayer types at a glance
| Type | Capacity | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger sprayers | handheld | spot work, detailing, light application |
| Mini pressure | 1.0 to 1.5L | precise acid, solvent and pest work |
| Poly pressure | 3.0 to 8.0L | general cleaning, weed and chemical work |
| Stainless steel | 5.0 to 12.0L | heavy duty, sealers, hot or aggressive chemicals |
| Air-driven (wall, IBC, drum) | bulk | high-volume continuous work |
| Foamers & injectors | varies | clinging foam for contact time |
Step 3: choosing by job
- Pest and termite control: mini pressure sprayers plus termiticide foam injectors.
- Commercial cleaning: foamers for contact time, plus pressure sprayers for degreasers and sanitisers.
- Food processing: food-grade sprayers and foamers, EPDM for sanitisers.
- Concrete and construction: stainless or solvent-resistant for sealers, acid-resistant for cleaning.
- Automotive and detailing: foamers and foam guns for wash, triggers for tyre shine.
- Agriculture and horticulture: poly pressure and knapsack sprayers.
Step 4: output, capacity and foam
Mist or stream from pressure and trigger sprayers; foam for dwell time on vertical surfaces; air-driven for high-volume continuous work. Capacity: 1.0 to 1.5L for spot work, 3 to 8L poly for general work, 5 to 12L stainless for heavy work. Air-driven foamers use compressed air for a rich dry foam; airless foamers use water pressure and need no air line.
Common questions
How do I choose the right sprayer?
Start with the chemical, which sets the seal. Then choose the output, the capacity, and whether you need a handheld or mounted high-volume unit.
What capacity sprayer do I need?
1.0 to 1.5L for spot work, 3.0 to 8.0L poly for general work, 5.0 to 12.0L stainless for heavy work, or an air-driven mounted system for continuous use.
What is the difference between a sprayer and a foamer?
A sprayer applies liquid as a mist or stream. A foamer turns the chemical into clinging foam that stays on the surface longer, improving contact time.
Why choose stainless steel over poly?
Stainless handles heavier duty, hotter and more aggressive chemicals, and lasts longer. Poly is lighter and suits general work.
Do you offer custom or modified sprayers?
Yes, we modify applicators, fit specific seal materials and provide private labelling to suit your chemical and brand.